The Queensland Literary Awards showcase outstanding authors from across Australia, celebrating emerging and established authors across a range of genres. And this year we are delighted to discover that Karen Comer and Anna Whateley have both been shortlisted in the Young Adult Book Award category!

For her novel Once Upon Tomorrow (Hachette Australia) the judges’s said; ‘Through a unique blend of verse and prose, the interwoven stories of three teenage girls existing 100 years apart are artfully revealed: a tapestry artist, a present-day pregnant teen, and a futuristic teen reliant on technology. Comer has created a seminal, thought-provoking and beautifully evoked speculative novel encapsulating issues of procreation, sustainability, technology and equality.’

And for the novel Tearing Myself Together (Allen and Unwin) the judge’s comments were; ‘Hilzy and Imogen used to be best friends and are trying to complete year twelve. They are also each navigating invisible disabilities. Through authentic voice and characterisation, this emotive narrative of friendship and family explores daily life experienced with invisible disabilities, and how knowing who you are is essential for self-advocacy and empowerment in all relationships.’

All category winners will be announced at the QLAs ceremony as part of BWF on 8 October. Huge congratulations to everyone shortlisted, and especially our own Anna and Karen!